Proposed trailhead should be serene place

I understand Boulder County’s desire to open East Boulder Creek to the public, but the current plan must not be approved. Locating a trailhead/parking lot on 109th Street is wrong. First, it harms neighboring properties and neighborhoods. It’s inexcusable to thrust a 50-car parking lot into someone’s front yard. And it’s unforgivable to intentionally destroy the quiet serenity of a neighborhood. Secondly, if it’s truly a goal to create a place for children and people with disabilities to connect to nature, placing the trailhead on 109th Street is also a mistake. The eastern side of this property is the most interesting area. The ponds and wetlands in this area support a richly diverse wildlife population. Having children and people with disabilities walk 2.5 miles, round trip, from a trailhead on 109th Street, will make it difficult for most of them to ever see this area. The trailhead must be placed closer to the eastern area to make it a more positive experience.

Turning this quiet and serene area, which is rich in wildlife, into another recreation area is also wrong. There are plenty of other areas available for recreation. Disturbances caused by large numbers of runners, bikers, dogs and anglers using this property could have unintended consequences that no one wants to see.

The loss of any wildlife would be tragic.

Instead, Boulder County might consider developing an Educational Wildlife Sanctuary. Engage the Audubon Society, and other naturalists to design a trail system, complete with a suitable number of viewing and sitting areas. Include educational signage describing the richly diverse wildlife population and why undisturbed native grasslands, streamside corridors and wetlands are essential for their survival. Make it a wonderful place for schools and parents to bring children. Make it a quiet and serene place for contemplation.

— Bill Arnold, Longmont